Hibernians kicked-off their VBET Malta Premier Opening Round league phase commitments in style with a 2-0 win over Sliema Wanderers at the Tony Bezzina Stadium on Sunday.
The Blues showed greater determination in the opening minutes but missed a penalty with the Paolites soon gaining the upper hand and scoring a goal in each half to secure victory.
Hibernians Tugberk Tanrivermis named no less than nine new players, namely Matteo Cardinali, Moritz Romling, Fabian Jankovic, Joseph Mbong, Jamie Wahling, Olivier N’Zi, Ryder Matos, Leandro Lacunza and Boris Druga in the starting eleven with another new signing Joy Slayd Mickels being included during the second half.
On the other hand, new Sliema Wanderers coach Branko Nisevic handed new recruits Henry Bonello, Diego Camara, Matteo Lorenzi, Teddy Teuma, Brian Gambarte, Nikolaos Karelis and Vlatko Drobarov a start. Alex Satariano, Wale Musa Alli and Nigel Robertha were included as substitutes.
After just two minutes, the Wanderers were awarded a penalty as Leandro Lacunza floored Anthony Limbombe inside the area but Teddy Teuma hit high from the penalty spot.
Hibernians managed to take the lead on 28 minutes. Bjorn Kristensen delivered a cross from the right and Ryder Matos served Boris Druga who slotted the ball past goalkeeper Bonello.
Substitute Alex Satariano went close for the Wanderers with a shot from the left which hit the foot of the upright on 66 minutes.
However, on 73 minutes, Hibernians doubled the score. Substitute Joy Slayd Mickels provided the assist from the right and Fabian Jankovic beat Bonello with a first-time effort.